9 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Miss the 9th ManilArt

"GJM Eroc" by Eufemio Rasco IV and "Dalangin" by Velasco 

BECAUSE of the Philippines’ rich history, diverse influences and unique cultures, its art is as equally rich, diverse and unique.

This is what ManilArt has been showcasing since its first outing in 2009, a time when the modern-day Philippine art revolution was just beginning.

As it opens its ninth edition come October 12, the international art fair portrays the role of Philippine art in expanding the artistic frontiers of Southeast Asia, said the National Commission on Culture and Arts in a press statement.

So whether you’re an aspiring or established artist, an art collector or just an enthusiast, make sure you don’t miss the 9th ManilArt. Here are nine reasons why:

1. The Philippine as artistic powerhouse

The consistency of the Filipino artist in the past decade—both in the local and global scene—has been a key factor in re-establishing the Philippines as a cultural powerhouse in the region. As such, ManilArt is themed “The Philippines as an ASEAN cultural powerhouse.”

2. Mindanaoan art takes spotlight

This year, the art fair highlights Mindanao region and gives the spotlight to Mindanaoan artists and artworks. Among the Mindanaoan artists to be featured are Kublai Millan whose life passion has decorated Mindanao in various monumental sculptures; and Romulo Galicano, creator of “The Modern Holocaust” depicting the Maguindanao Massacre, to unveiled during the event.

 Rey Mudjahid “Kublai” Ponce Millan (Photo from Rappler.com)

3. Foreign guests holds shows, workshops

Taverne Gutenberg International Residency Guest Artists Henri Lamy, Alexandre Beretta, Chufy, Abdul Khadre Seck will be featured in a live mural painting performance headed by project director Maia d’Aboville. This happens on October 13, 2 pm to 7 pm at the workshop area, to be culminated by an auction.

Happening on the same day at the ManilArt Lounge is Italian Vivianna Ricelli’s workshop on figurative painting of Live Dance (pre-registration required).

4. A digital showcase

With the substantial following of Filipino talent abroad, ManilArt amplifies its presence internationally by showing selected works both in digital space through its website, http://manilart.org/.

5. Art appreciation via walking tours

Just like in previous years, the art fair will hold art appreciation walking tours for walk-in registrants. These will be held on October 13 and 14 at the following schedules: 12 pm to 1 pm, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

6. A focus on the youth

Also looking to develop the local identity is Roberto Lolong who has created digital background painting for popular animes such as Slam Dunk, Dragon Ball Z, and One Piece. He pays it forward by giving the Filipino youth a chance to be trained in and perhaps develop an interest in digital background painting. He will conduct a free watercolor painting workshop at the fair.

7. Over 30 galleries under one roof

ManilArt 2017 is participated by selected 37 bonafide galleries including local ones like vMEME Contemporary Art Gallery, Artphile, Espacio Manila, Galeria Lienzo, Ysobel Art Gallery, among others, and international ones like Taverne Gutenberg, Lyon, France and Singapore International Contemporary Art Society.

8. Coincides with the Museums and Art Galleries Month

ManilArt also coincides with the celebration of Museums and Art Galleries Month this October by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 798 (s.1991). It is spearheaded by NCCA through its National Committee on Arts Galleries (NCAG), Bonafide Art Galleries Organization (BAGO) and the ManilArt Foundation Inc. (MAFI).

9. Visually enticing and mentally stimulating

ManilArt’17 Team Members Delan Robillos (NCAG Head), Danny Rayos del Sol and Rio Ambrosio (Execom Members), with Amy Loste of the Bonafide Art Galleries Organization, and Tess Rayos del Sol, Overall Director and Curator, envision a showcase of the different aspects of Philippine art that will not only visually entice but also mentally stimulate.

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Happening from October 12 to 15 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier in BGC Taguig, ManilArt is in partnership with the City of Taguig, SMX, SM Aura Premier, Lifestyle Asia, Ladder Events Productions, Hyperdigital, Inc., BDO, Art Plus, Art Friend, the Artisan Gatherer, Museo Orlina and Taverne Gutenberg.

For the full activities schedule and ticket information, visit manilart.org or for inquiries, call 0977-8073369.

(TEXT AND PHOTOS LIFTED FROM manilart.org)

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